Chicago White Sox fans will have a chance to add a one-of-a-kind piece of memorabilia to their collection on Tuesday: a “Pope hat.”
The team is giving away limited-edition hats during Tuesday’s game against the Cincinnati Reds. The giveaway is part of the festivities surrounding the 6:40 p.m. game honoring Pope Leo XIV’s fandom.
When first announced in April, the specialty “Pope hat” generated extensive media attention and widespread fan demand. Days later, the team expanded the giveaway to all fans attending the game.
Fans can expect more than the giveaway.
Other pregame festivities include:
- Chicago White Sox Charities (CWSC) check presentation to Midwest Augustinian Province accepted by Prior Provincial Father Tom McCarthy
- Ceremonial first pitch by Sister Mary Jo Sobieck of the Dominican Sisters of Springfield
- Take the Field recognition, featuring students from Our Lady of Mount Carmel Academy’s Vatican-recognized kids’ conclave as they join players from the White Sox starting lineup
- Announcement of “play ball” by former White Sox pitcher Donn “The Pope” Pall
The game day festivities don’t stop there.
Chicago artist Nick Apple will create a live mural painting celebrating Pope Leo XIV’s White Sox fandom from the ballpark’s center field concourse.
Evergreen Park and Marist High School alum Father Tom Hurley and featuring lifelong White Sox fan and comedian Pat McGann will lead a “Peace Be With You.” Drawing from a Catholic Mass tradition, fans at Rate Field will be invited to share a “Peace Be With You” greeting with those around them, according to the team.
It’s the latest Pope-themed promotion for the White Sox, who announced their 2026 schedule with a “Conclave” theme, and Pope Leo XIV delivered a special message to Chicago during a special celebration at Rate Field last year.
Standing-room tickets for the “Pope hat” giveaway can be purchased at the White Sox website or at the Rate Field Box Office.
